Michelle Bowley of Saladworx receives her award from the competition judges
Here's a press release from Highland Opportunity and Business Gateway
Sutherland company Saladworx is celebrating winning a cash prize of £5,000 after Business Gateway Highlands and Moray named them their Business of the Year.
Saladworx battled it out against two other finalists, including Highlands Unbridled from Brora, to win the coveted award which they will now invest in their enterprise.
Also winning £5,000 to put towards developing their company were Papa Rock from Aviemore, who were crowned Young Business of the Year.
The event, held in Inverness Town House was hosted by STV’s Highlands and Islands correspondent Nicola McAlley.
There were an encouraging number of applicants, and of these, six finalists were selected for their impressive growth or ambitious growth plans. They showcased their company by delivering a Dragon’s Den style pitch to a panel of judges which consisted of Brian Urquhart, Divisional Director at the Orion Group, Stewart Nicol, Chief Executive of the Inverness Chamber of Commerce and David Owen, Company Manager of Highland Opportunity Ltd.
The judges applauded the achievements of Saladworx - a grower and supplier of salad leaves, edible flowers, and herbs – for demonstrating solid business planning and a clear commitment to product development and customer satisfaction.
Michelle Bowley, business owner of Saladworz said: “We are delighted to win this prize. Over the last six years, we have worked hard to establish the business and we are excited about the future. This money will go a long way in helping us to achieve our growth plans and hopefully further success. Since we approached Business Gateway 18 months ago, they have given us excellent free support and advice. We would like to thank them for their belief in us and the business.”
The judges were also impressed by the other two companies in the category; Moray First Marine Ltd based in Elgin and Highlands Unbridled, who offer trail riding holidays and pony trekking across the Highlands.
David Owen of Highland Opportunity said: “Once again our Business Awards have been a huge success. We are delighted to work with hundreds of local entrepreneurs and to support innovative business ideas whether it is through events such as these, one-to-one advice, web resources or free workshops. While the competition was tough, both Saladworx and Papa Rock demonstrated drive, enthusiasm and a clear idea of how they wanted to take their company forward.”
Congratulations to "Saladworx" and runners-up "Highlands Unbridled" on their incredible achievement.
